SOUTHEND school pupils are celebrating their GCSE results, with more than 70 per cent achieving a grade four or above in English and maths combined.

Under the new scoring system introduced last year, a grade four is equivalent to a C grade.

Over 2,000 young people in the borough were entered into GCSEs, with pupils performing above the national average in English and maths.

Southend councillor Helen Boyd, cabinet member for children and learning, said: “Very well done to all pupils for this excellent set of results.

“You should be rightly proud of your achievements.

“Schools in Southend are continuing to improve in maths and English, which are so important for work, training or further education, and our results continue to be above national averages.”

Across Essex, 65 per cent of entrants achieved at least level four in English and Maths, with 42 per cent achieving level five.

The new grading scales have been introduced to signal the GSCE reform and demonstrate the more challenging nature of the exam content, along with encouraging schools to teach a broad curriculum.

Cllr Ray Gooding, Essex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, said: “My congratulations to all who sat their GSCE exams this year.

“The hard work that goes into studying cannot be underestimated and shows huge commitment and dedication.

“Also thanks to all those in a supportive role – teachers, parents and family members for their part in helping our pupils achieve such great results.”

A SCHOOL in Billericay celebrated an excellent day as their former year 11 students opened their GCSE results.

Mayflower High School in Stock Road, Billericay saw around 500 results from their year 11 students reach at least a grade seven, equivalent to and old grade A.

The school saw three students reach the top grade, gaining tens to sevens across their results.

Lee Brumby, headteacher of the school congratulated his students who will be moving on to either the school sixth form or other avenues in the future.

He said: “These truly excellent results, which reflect the hard work and commitment of students and staff over the last two years and the continued support of our parents and governors.

“I would like to congratulate everyone on their success.

“The students have responded magnificently to the new courses in the majority of subjects.

“The majority of students have excelled in their subjects and have benefited from the programmes the school has put in place.

“Equally, I am delighted with the broad and balanced nature of the curriculum, allowing all students to achieve.

“Combined with this year’s A Level results, I am immensely proud of the high standards and levels of attainment recorded at Mayflower High School.”

A SCHOOL in Basildon has joined in with the GCSE celebrations after students received great results.

The James Hornsby School saw more than 50 per cent of students being awarded their English and maths GCSEs, along with many gaining the highest grades in subjects such as English, maths, science and languages. Jason Carey, headteacher, said: "I am very proud of all the students and thanks to my dedicated team of staff for helping our Year 11s gain such a strong set of exam results. It is days like today that make this job so special. We like to celebrate as 'The James Hornsby family' - students, staff and parents together. Well done everyone."